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Wednesday, October 6, 2010

5 Ways To Save On Invitations

With spring being just around the corner (hard to believe I know) I thought I would give my top 5 ways to save on wedding invitations. I know what it is like to have a budget, and force yourself to stick with it! Here are a few things that can help save you money in the long run:

If you really love something, make it work! - I know what it is like to fall in love with an invitation and then realize it is completely out of your budget range. This doesn't mean that it is impossible! The best part of choosing an invitation consultant that is not a big corporation is that they can work with you to create exactly what you want, at a lower cost to you!

Beware of postage! - A lot of brides think that if their invitations fit in a standard size envelope, the postage will be the normal rate. This can be true, but not always. Most invitations weigh more than a standard letter and therefore require more postage. Another thing that can sneak up on you is if you have square invitations. Square invitations require more postage because they must be hand cancelled and can not run through the machines. Check with your local post office before you make any major decisions, or at the very least, figure that into your budget beforehand.

Less is more (sometimes!) - Every bow, ribbon, embellishment, or layers of paper can add up. Decide what you are willing to live without, and again, ask your invitation consultant (hopefully me!) what you can do to cut costs but still come out with a beautiful invitation that reflects you and your personality!

Include an RSVP Postcard! - Postcard postage is $.28, while postage for a letter is $.44. This is a difference of $.16. While $.16 doesn't sound like a lot, with 150 invitations, that is $24 extra dollars if you include an RSVP with an envelope. Not to mention that you then have to pay for the envelope as well. A postcard is a modern and trendy way to include an RSVP while still saving money.

Online RSVP! - For brides that are having the reception at the same venue, or are not worried about head counts at all, not including an RSVP card may be the way to go. There are also many free wedding websites out there like The Knot or WeddingWire where you can have family and friends RSVP online, for free! I have seen many brides go this route, and they get just the same amount of response as they would have with RSVP cards.

While deciding on invitations can be overwhelming sometimes, there really are ways to save you time and money! If you see something that you love but simply can not fit it into your budget, never hesitate to ask, because anything is possible!